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Athlete A

Athlete A: A Must-Watch Netflix Documentary that Exposes a Corrupt System

 Dr Ramandeep Mahal reviews 'Athlete A', a documentary that exposes corruption. 

Athlete A is a 2020 Netflix documentary that is as enraging as it is heartbreaking. Directed by Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk, the film delves into one of the biggest scandals in sports history, revealing a corrupt system that allowed a sexual predator to abuse athletes for decades while covering up his crimes. The documentary is cantered around Dr Larry Nassar, a former USA Gymnastics (USAG) team doctor, and the toxic culture that enabled his misconduct.

The title Athlete A refers to Maggie Nichols, the first gymnast to report Nassar’s abuse to USAG. Shockingly, her bravery was met with silence and inaction, exposing a system more interested in protecting its reputation and profitability than safeguarding its athletes. Nichols' story, alongside those of other survivors, anchors this emotionally devastating film, which highlights not only Nassar’s crimes but also the broader culture of authoritarianism and exploitation in gymnastics.

The documentary begins with the investigative work of reporters from the Indianapolis Star in March 2016, who unearthed allegations of widespread abuse within USAG. Their relentless pursuit of the truth led to Nassar’s conviction two years later, the banning of numerous coaches, and hundreds of survivors coming forward to share their stories. This investigation reveals how USAG’s leadership, including former president Steve Penny and vice president Rhonda Faehn, prioritized brand protection over addressing abuse allegations. Survivors faced intrusive inquiries into their personal lives and cyberbullying for speaking out, highlighting the lengths to which the organization went to silence them.

The film also sheds light on the toxic training environment perpetuated by coaches like Bela and Martha Karolyi. Survivors describe their coaching style as militant and dehumanising—an environment ripe for abuse, including weight-shaming and psychological torment. In contrast, Nassar’s seemingly “nice” and “quirky” demeanour made him appear trustworthy, allowing him to exploit young athletes further.

What makes Athlete A truly impactful is its focus on the survivors. Despite the horrors they endured, Maggie Nichols and her fellow athletes reclaim their power, proving that joy and love for the sport can triumph over its darkest moments. The documentary leaves viewers inspired by their resilience while also demanding accountability and systemic reform within sports organisations.

While Athlete A is undoubtedly difficult to watch, especially given the harrowing accounts of abuse, it is a vital film that confronts the uncomfortable truths behind the glamor of Olympic-level gymnastics. Cohen and Shenk elevate the voices of the survivors, ensuring their stories are heard and the systemic failures exposed. The documentary is a powerful reminder of the importance of investigative journalism, resilience, and the fight for justice.

Netflix continues to prove itself as a platform for hard-hitting documentaries that both expose wrongdoing and celebrate the strength of survivors. Athlete A is not just a documentary; it’s a call to action. It will leave you angry, heartbroken, and ultimately inspired.

Rating: 9.5/10 – A poignant and unflinching documentary that stirs powerful emotions and demands change.

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Dr. Ramandeep Mahal is currently working as an Assistant Professor of English at Guru Nanak Khalsa College Yamunanagar. She received her Doctorate degree from Maharishi Markandeshwar Mullana Ambala in 2018. Her research interests include Anglo-American Literature, Indian Writing in English, African Literature. She is the author of more than twenty research papers.

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